question on my Maxima PIC

[Sundiego]

I recently got a new clam(yesterday). He looks good, and is already attached to a rock. My questions is that he does not fully open, and appears skiddish (closes on occasion if I get near the tank).

I do have a lot of light (read signature). He is about 1/2-3/4 up in the tank. I'm womdering if he is getting too much light? I was told by my LFS to keep him near the top.

Is this normal for him only being in my tank for a day? He is free of snails.

My lfs also told me that if he did not like where he was, then he would not have attached himself.

Other than not completely opening he looks great. Should I be concerned? Although not clear in the pic he has plenty of room to open

Here is a pic:

Thx Mark

 

[Unarce]

It's very early, Mark. Something as simple as repositioning is stressful for clams. A transfer to a new system can seem life-threatening, sometimes causing a survival spawn.

It's likely just getting used to the surroundings. It's eyes do not yet recognize the regular movements within and around your tank. Just give it time

 

[Sundiego]

Thx Unarce I feel a bit better now.


I just made some measurements.

My lights are a little lower than most.

The glass shield on my MH's is 3 1/2" from the water, and the clam is another 9 1/2" under that.

My bulbs are about 2" above the shields. Is this ok, or should I raise my lights?

 

[Unarce]

The oldest, general rule is that the bulb should be at least 6" above the water. You could also get a more even spread, if you raise it up a bit, as DE bulbs tend to have that spotlight effect with most reflector designs.

Personally, I would have started the clam off at the bottom of the tank for about a week, and see how it likes it there. I don't like to keep maximas directly on sand, myself, but many do just fine there. However, it's more natural for them to be settled on a nice bed of live rock rubble.

Maxima's occur naturally at around 30 feet, so they're suited for moderate MH-lighting. I feel water stability and proper, long-term placement is paramount for this species.

 

[Sundiego]

Well instead of attempting to move the clam, I'm going to raise my lights tomorrow. I'm going to get them to 7 1/2 " off the water(from the glass shields). I just hope this does not affect my Acro.

Thanks for your help.

Mark